Planning a charter in the Florida Keys sounds simple until you try to pick a route. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Key West, Dry Tortugas… it’s a lot, and every option sounds like the right one. This list narrows it down to five routes that consistently deliver clear water, memorable scenery, and a day that flows well for a private group.
Each route below is set up the same way: a short overview, a few stops you can build around, and who it tends to work best for.
1) Key Largo Reef Route
If snorkeling is the priority, Key Largo is a strong starting point. The reefs offshore are accessible, the water is often clear, and the overall pace is easy to manage even with a mixed group.
Spots You Could Hit:
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Reef snorkeling near the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park area
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A second reef stop if the group wants more water time and conditions are good
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A shoreline cruise for photos and a relaxing break between swims
Great for first-time Keys visitors, families, and groups where some people want to snorkel while others prefer a comfortable ride and swim at a slower pace. This route also works well when you want a strong Keys experience without spending the day in transit.
2) Islamorada Sandbar + Waterfront Lunch Loop
Islamorada is a classic choice when you want a mix of swimming, cruising, and a lunch stop that fits naturally into the day. It’s a “best of both” route: water time first, then a quick reset with food and shade.
Spots You Could Hit:
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A sandbar stop for shallow-water swimming and floating
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A cruise through local channels and open stretches of water
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A dock-and-dine lunch at a waterfront restaurant (timing depends on docking availability)
Best for friend groups and couples, plus families with older kids who like variety. If your group isn’t trying to make the day only about snorkeling, this route keeps everyone engaged without feeling hectic.
3) Marathon “Greatest Hits”
Marathon sits in the middle of the Keys, which makes it a practical launch point for combining highlights. You can do reef time, a calmer swim stop, and iconic sightseeing without long runs between each.
Spots You Could Hit:
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A reef stop near Sombrero Reef for snorkeling and clear-water views
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A sandbar or calm-water swim stop based on conditions
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A scenic cruise near the Seven Mile Bridge for photos
Ideal for mixed groups where everyone has a different “must do.” Snorkelers get a solid stop, sightseers get the landmark views, and the pacing works well for half-day or longer charters.
4) Lower Keys Quiet-Water Route
The Lower Keys are a good option when your group wants a calmer feel and fewer busy areas. It’s less about famous landmarks and more about enjoying the water, swimming, and having space.
Spots You Could Hit:
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Shallow-water areas for easy swimming and floating
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A scenic cruise along quieter stretches for wildlife spotting and relaxed views
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Optional photo stops in calmer pockets if the day’s conditions line up
Great for families with younger kids, smaller groups, and anyone who prefers an unhurried charter. If the goal is to be comfortable, swim, snack, and enjoy the ride without a packed agenda, this route fits well.
5) Key West to Dry Tortugas
This is the route people plan ahead for. Dry Tortugas has a remote feel that’s hard to replicate closer to shore, and it pairs best with a longer trip so you have time to enjoy it once you arrive.
Spots You Could Hit:
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Open-water cruising with a steady, comfortable pace
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Time near Dry Tortugas for photos, swimming, and taking in the setting
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A relaxed return run with room for breaks and downtime
Best for milestone trips, returning Keys visitors, and groups that want a full-day experience. If you’re choosing one “bucket-list” route and you have the time for it, this is usually the one.
Make it Your Day with SeaEO
The routes above are great starting points, but the best part of a SeaEO charter is that nothing has to be cookie-cutter. Your captain can help you shape the plan around what your group cares about most, whether that’s snorkeling, sandbars, sightseeing, a slower cruise, or a mix of everything.
SeaEO also offers multiple charter lengths, so you can keep it short and focused or give yourself more time for extra stops and a more relaxed pace. To see the full range of charter options and start planning, visit our SeaEO Charters page.